A heartwarming yet controversial video of Justice Ekaete Obot, the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State dancing exuberantly in full judicial robes during a church service has gone viral, sparking discussions on judicial decorum and personal expressions of faith. Shared by social media user Idara Adiakpan with the caption, “A very rare video of the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom state, Justice Ekaete Obot,” the clip shows the CJ leading a spirited worship session to mark the opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year.
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Watched by thousands, the footage captures Obot and fellow judges swaying and praising in a Pentecostal-style celebration, blending formal legal tradition with lively spiritual expression.
The event, held at The Believers Assembly (Evangel.) Nigeria, City of Hope, Uyo, served as a ceremonial prelude to the new legal calendar, emphasizing themes of divine guidance in justice administration. Obot, known for her no-nonsense approach to judicial reforms in Akwa Ibom, appeared radiant and fully immersed, her flowing robes billowing as she danced to upbeat gospel tunes.
The video, which amassed over a thousand views within hours, offers a rare glimpse into the human side of the judiciary. However, it also divided netizens: some hailed it as a refreshing acknowledgment of God as the “Chief of all Judges,” while others criticized it as an ethical lapse that could undermine the bench’s gravitas.
“Do Judges Dance?” — Netizens React As Akwa Ibom CJ Obot Praises God In Robes, Calling It A Delight To See Judges Reference God pic.twitter.com/VtxsaJxqaF
— The Nigeria Lawyer (@Nigerialawyers) September 18, 2025
Idara Adiakpan’s post, timestamped early Wednesday, quickly drew reactions from lawyers, ethicists, and the public. The video’s comment section erupted into a micro-debate on judicial conduct, with responses ranging from celebratory to critical. Supporters viewed it as an authentic display of humanity, while detractors argued it risked diminishing public trust in the judiciary’s impartiality. Notable reactions include:
- Udeme Udoh, a legal moderator from Uyo, shared a personal anecdote: “I once moderated a post Call to Bar event in Uyo and when the celebrant matched in without dancing to the music that was playing, I was tempted to ask why he didn’t dance; there and then I was told that lawyers don’t dance when they are in their robe.” His comment evoked chuckles, highlighting the unwritten “no-dance” rule in legal circles.
- Osili Kelvin Savio Chidubem was unequivocal in his disapproval, replying directly to Udoh: “The Chief Judge and other Judges in the video were wrong.” His terse critique amplified concerns about breaching professional boundaries.
- John Emmanuel Okon, a vocal commentator on ethics, offered a nuanced take: “Public dancing in full judicial robes, especially alongside other top judges, is not ethically ideal. Yes, judges are human and should be able to dance and express themselves, but the real issue lies in public perception. Once such videos trend, it diminishes the dignity of the bench, and she certainly knows this. Unfortunately, in Nigeria today, many institutions are broken, and ethics often seem to be thrown out the window.” Okon’s post garnered over 200 likes, resonating with those wary of social media’s impact on institutional image.
- PrinceDon Donald Dickson injected a layer of political intrigue: “You see these cabal on judge eeh. If them say bye… it’s finished,” implying that non-participating judges might face repercussions. He elaborated, “Meaning if other judges don’t dance with him, they may be seen as someone not in line with the CJ,” suggesting the dance as a subtle loyalty test within the judiciary.
- Aniefiok Eduok struck an uplifting tone: “To God be the glory. It’s always a delight to see Judges reference God and acknowledge him as the Chief of all Judges. To God be the Glory.” His repeated invocation mirrored the video’s spiritual essence, earning supportive emojis from faith-focused viewers.
- Greatness Akpan added a playful, observational flair: “From their dressing you should know the kind of heart that they will have and went to The woman Carrie ooo, even with big gown e dey show ‘the body shape’.” The cheeky remark on the CJ’s silhouette under her robes sparked lighthearted banter, blending admiration with humor.
- Polycarpuwem Michael expressed genuine surprise: “So judges can dance? I thought they live a conservative life 😔😔.” The emoji-laden post captured the shock of many who view the judiciary through a lens of stoicism.
- Ekemini Udim poetically reframed the scene: “When the legalese are kept aside for a second to allow for a session of worship to the Almighty Father.” His words evoked a sense of respite from legal rigors.
- Moments With Egan gushed with positivity: “This is cute, I am just smiling, God above all things. She looks so beautiful; when you do what is right, you will radiate.” The comment emphasized the video’s feel-good vibe.
- Michael Asuquo defended the judges’ spirituality: “Judges pray more than many other people o! It is not easy with them.” His insight humanized the profession, countering stereotypes of emotional detachment.
Other users echoed the split: initial posts like “do judges dance?” evolved into broader queries about ethics, with one anonymous commenter quipping, “It’s always a delight to see Judges reference God and acknowledge him as the Chief of all Judges” a sentiment that bookended many supportive threads.
Obot, appointed Chief Judge in 2020, has championed initiatives like virtual hearings and anti-corruption drives, but this moment reveals her lighter side. As the music swells likely a rendition of a popular Nigerian gospel track the CJ’s dance symbolizes surrender to faith, offering a stark contrast to the austere courtroom demeanor expected of her office.
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